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Xynomavro is a dark-skinned grape variety widely planted in northern Greece and, to a lesser extent, the Macedonian Republic. The variety is highly regarded in its native Greece as the finest red wine the country has to offer. It is certainly one of the biggest red wines in the Mediterranean, and indeed Europe, with its characteristically high tannin and acidity. The word Xynomavro itself is a conjunction of the Greek words for acid and black, though this is often interpreted as black and sour. Younger examples of Xynomavro remain true to their name, although the wine’s structure allows it to age gracefully for many years. Xynomavro is relatively versatile and often appears as rose or base for sparkling wines. In Naousa, where Xynomavro is extensively grown, winemakers boast of the completeness of their wine. In some circles the use of oak is frowned upon, with locally grown walnut the preferred choice for aging since it imparts no discernible flavor. The ideological approach to the grape can be best illustrated by two Greek appellations' requirements for its treatment. In Naousa. Xynomavro must be produced as a single varietal wine, while further south in Rapsani it must be blended with Stavroto and Krasato. Xynomavro produced for early consumption is typically blended with Merlot to soften its austere nature, though exponents of the 'old school' frown upon any practice of blending a grape, they believe, too noble to dilute. Xynomavro grapes are blue-black in tight clusters. The size of berries varies within the different clones of Xynomavro, but all vines are late ripening and of a fickle nature. Vintage variation is a significant factor to consider with regard to purchasing decisions since the weather can play a large role in Xynomavro’s quality. Aged examples of 100% Xynomavro are often compared to the great wines of Burgundy and Barolo, though they have been also been likened to everything from the color of Rioja to the mouthfeel of Chianti. As the world familiarizes itself with Greek wine, Xynomavro will certainly reveal its identity and establish its own place as a great European wine. Synonyms include: Black Naousa, Xynomavro of Naousa, Xynomavro Naousis, Mavro Naoussis, Mavro Naoustino, Niaoussa, Popolka, Pipolka, Xinomavro, Xyno Mavro.
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